Diolch, Lywydd. This statement updates Members on a delay to the M4 corridor around Newport public local inquiry as a direct result of actions taken by the UK Government.

Due to the short time frame until the planned inquiry start date, I decided to release a written statement yesterday to advise all stakeholders as soon as possible. As I set out to Members here on 21 June, it is vital that this process is fully transparent. In this spirit, it is right and proper that this matter is discussed with Members at the earliest opportunity.

The Department for Transport has, without consultation, introduced revised methodology to their new forecasting for traffic growth, referred to as TEMPro 7. As I want to ensure that decisions on the M4 project are based upon the most accurate, robust and up-to-date information, I must now allow sufficient time for a review of reporting that supports the published proposals issued in March 2016 to be carried out.

Dependent on the outcome of my review, the inquiry, which was due to commence on 1 November, will start no later than 31 March next year. In the interests of fairness and transparency, reporting on this matter will be shared with all stakeholders as soon as reasonably possible. The timetable of an inquiry would be as I previously set out and last around five months and examine all aspects of the M4 project, as well as all suggested alternatives.

I am well aware of the range of views towards the project. An inquiry would allow these views to be heard, and outside of that process I am keen to continue to explore all opportunities for reducing negative impacts and maximising cross-cutting benefits of this major investment.

The UK Government has already expressed its desire to see work on the M4 project start as soon as possible, so it is hugely disappointing that the Department for Transport failed to engage with us on these revisions before they were introduced, forcing this regrettable delay. Whilst we push forward with our metro plans for the north and the south, the long-standing and continued problems associated with the M4 around Newport need a solution that delivers, for the long term, integrated and sustainable transport systems.

Assessments to date indicate that our proposed M4 project is the only reasonable solution, but it is only right and proper that the proposals are tested in light of the most up-to-date information available to ensure that we deliver the right choice for the people of Wales.

The problem has not gone away. We have made a strong commitment to deliver a sustainable, long-term solution to the chronic traffic problems of this stretch of the M4. Subject to my review and inquiry approval, the M4 corridor around Newport project can still be delivered in 2021.